Firefighters Gain Control Over Tomago Bushfire as Severe Winds Eases

2 September 2024

A bushfire that ignited near the AGL Gas Storage facility on Old Punt Road at Tomago has been brought under control, following a day of intense firefighting efforts as strong winds posed a significant challenge.

The fire, which broke out on Monday, September 2, burned through 88 hectares of land, triggering road closures and evacuation procedures in the area. The blaze was escalated to watch and act then classified at an emergency warning level, prompting the evacuation of several AGL Energy workers from the nearby Newcastle Gas Storage Facility, which holds up to 30,000 tonnes of liquefied natural gas.

Emergency services, including Rural Fire Service (RFS) crews, worked tirelessly to contain the fire amid damaging winds that gusted up to 100 km/h across the region. Helicopters were deployed to drop water over the affected areas while ground crews focused on holding the fire along Tomago Road and near critical infrastructure, such as the water treatment plant.

Residents in the vicinity of Tomago Road, Westrac Drive, and Masonite Road were urged to implement their Fire Danger Safety Plans as conditions remained volatile throughout the afternoon. At the peak of the emergency, authorities advised that it was too late to leave, with embers being blown long distances ahead of the main fire front, increasing the risk of spot fires.

By late afternoon, the fire was downgraded to a Watch and Act alert level as firefighters made significant progress in containing the blaze. Backburning operations were initiated on the northern and eastern edges of the fire to create containment lines, with efforts continuing into the night.

Tomago Road remained closed in both directions at the intersection of Cabbage Tree Road and Masonite Road and at the Old Punt Road roundabout, with authorities monitoring the situation closely.

The Bureau of Meteorology had issued a severe weather warning for damaging winds across parts of New South Wales, including the Hunter region. The winds, which peaked early Monday, were a key factor in the spread of the fire and the challenges faced by firefighting crews. However, conditions began to ease in the evening, providing some relief for emergency responders.

As of 6:00 pm, the fire had been further downgraded to an Advice alert level, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation overnight. The RFS urged residents to stay vigilant and follow updates through the Hazards Near Me app and the RFS website.

For those in the affected area, the RFS advised staying alert, monitoring surroundings for any changes, and following the directions of emergency personnel. The fire remains under close watch as crews work to fully extinguish the flames and secure the area.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the early onset of the bushfire season and the importance of preparedness as New South Wales braces for what could be a challenging summer ahead.

RFS Advise

Please download the “Hazards Near Me” app for the most up-to-date information.

ADVICE: OLD PUNT RD, TOMAGO, Port Stephens LGA – Monitor Conditions – Tomago Road, Westrac Drive, Masonite Rd

A bush fire is burning in the vicinity of Old Punt Road, north of the Tomago Road between Masonite Rd and the Pacific Highway, 3km south of Heatherbrae.

The fire has burnt through 88 hectares and is being controlled.

Current Situation

Conditions are easing across the fireground and firefighters are gaining the upper hand.
Firefighters were able to hold the fire north of Tomago Road in the vicinity of Westrac Drive.
Crews have begun a backburn on the northern and eastern edge of the fire in the vicinity of the water treatment plant. This will continue overnight.
Residents in the area may notice an increase of fire activity as the burns are conducted.
Tomago Road remains closed at the intersection of Cabbage Tree Road and Masonite Road and at the Old Punt Road roundabout. The road may open overnight subject to fire activity.

What you need to do

If you are in the area of Tomago Road, Masonite Road and Westrac Drive, stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions may still change.
Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
This means looking out for burning embers, changes in wind direction and smoke. Watch for signs of fire in your area.
Know what you will do if the fire impacts on where you are. Identify a safer location in case the situation changes. This may include a well cleared area or a solid structure such as a home.
If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving early is the safest option.

If you are threatened by fire

If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.
Shelter in a room on the other side of the building from the approaching fire, and one that has water and a clear exit out of the house.
Monitor both inside and outside for small fires and burning embers and turn sprinklers on if you have them.
Be careful outdoors after the fire has passed as trees can be unstable and fall.
If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).

Other Information

Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Hazards Near Me, the RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
If you have a respiratory condition and may be affected by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.

The next update on this fire will be issued by 03/09/2024 07:30 or if the situation changes.